Five North East businesses have been honoured with the King's Awards for Enterprise, one of the UK's most prestigious business accolades. The winners include Palintest, Express Engineering Group, Inflo Group, Openworks Engineering, and Forfusion, each recognised for their outstanding contributions to economic growth and societal improvement.
Recognition for Excellence
Now in their 60th year, the King's Awards for Enterprise are rigorously judged and celebrate businesses from across the UK and Channel Islands in categories such as international trade, innovation, sustainability, and promoting opportunity. This year, 186 recipients were selected, representing a diverse range of sectors. The North East winners stand out for their achievements in global trade, technological advancement, and community support.
Express Engineering Group
Based in Gateshead, Express Engineering Group received the International Trade award for outstanding short-term growth. Founded in 1973 by the late Keith Thompson, the company manufactures precision-engineered equipment for the offshore industry. It has grown into a £60m turnover business with around 330 employees across seven facilities in Gateshead and Middlesbrough. Chairman Chris Thompson expressed pride in the team's dedication, noting that the award reflects the company's technical expertise and global reputation.
Openworks Engineering
Openworks Engineering, based in Prudhoe, also won in the International Trade category. Founded in 2015 by five friends, the company develops counter-drone technology, including the SkyWall system. With exports accounting for 90% of sales, the firm employs 100 people and supports NATO and its allies. CEO Chris Down highlighted the team's commitment to innovation and the challenges of exporting, which have strengthened the business.
Palintest
Palintest, headquartered in Gateshead, earned the Innovation award for its Kemio sensors. Launched in 2019 after three years of R&D, the technology simplifies water testing and delivers results in about a minute. It is now used in over 30 countries, from food production sites in the UK to naval vessels in Australia and desalination plants in Qatar. R&D manager Kevin McDermott praised the engineering and scientific teams for their skill and collaboration.
Forfusion
Forfusion, based at Cobalt Park in North Tyneside, received the Promoting Opportunity award for its talent development and support of Armed Forces personnel. Its Civilian Work Attachment scheme helps ex-forces individuals transition into civilian employment through hands-on experience, mentoring, and career support. CEO Steven Forrest emphasised the company's commitment to putting people first and creating meaningful career pathways.
Inflo Group
Inflo Group, from North Shields, was recognised in the International Trade category. Founded in 2016 by four experienced auditors, the company provides software that automates audit processes, freeing professionals to focus on value-added activities. It has a strong presence in the US market.
Government Praise
Blair McDougall, Minister for Small Businesses and Economic Transformation, congratulated all winners, stating that the awards highlight British innovation and talent. He noted that small businesses across the UK are thriving and deserve recognition for their successes.
